The Giants have made a decision that qualifies as a no-risk move that nevertheless will have many fans scratching their heads. They have given safety C.C. Brown a restricted free agent tender that will pay him $1.226 million if he signs and sticks on the roster.

It was almost exactly a year ago when the Giants signed Brown to a one-year contract to add depth to their defensive backfield. Brown was a four-year starter with the Texans and his addition to the roster made sense as an experienced 26-year old backup for young starters Kenny Phillips and Michael Johnson. Phillips played two games before needing season-ending knee surgery and Brown moved in as a starter, a stint that lasted seven games.

Brown did not play well and became in some ways a symbol of the Giants defensive woes. By the end of the season Brown was on the field only for special teams duty.

So why offer him a one-year deal? Consider it insurance for the Giants. They have tendered all but two of their 11 soon-to-be restricted free agents – cornerback Kevin Dockery and tight end Darcy Johnson won’t be back – and thus have the right to match any offer for the nine players set to become restricted free agents on Friday. Brown was given a right of first refusal tender and thus the Giants would receive no compensation if he signs elsewhere.

This of course does not guarantee Brown will be back. Brown does have value as an affordable backup, especially if he’s asked to play up close to the line of scrimmage and his coverage assignments are limited. Until the Giants know more about Phillips’ rehabilitation from serious knee surgery keeping Brown around makes sense. Also, if the Giants are able to sign a safety in free agency or get one in the NFL Draft Brown might then become expendable and the Giants could simply cut him.